JMW secure the acquittal of their client in the longest trial in history at Liverpool Crown Court

On Friday 13 July 2018 what is reported as the longest trial in the history of Liverpool Crown Court, lasting a year and three days, came to a conclusion. JMW secured the acquittal of their client who faced Fraud Act offences, in particular conspiracy to defraud.

The prosecution alleged that the owner of a nursing home had befriended six residents over eighteen years in order to defraud them out of millions of pounds.

Following the decision of the jury the owner was convicted of multiple counts, including; conspiracy to defraud, Fraud Act offences, Theft Act offences, false accounting and money laundering.

The fraudulent activity, which the Presiding Judge described as “the most brazen fraud I have ever come across” has been valued at over £4.1 million. The Judge further commented that “this case is one of the most serious cases of abuse of trust that I suspect has ever come before the courts in this country.”

The Judge concluded the sentencing hearing by commending the police investigating team, thanking the jurors for their time and cooperation and praising the legal teams for their efforts in the complex case.

Mike Rainford, Sam Healey, Sadie Thomson and Jess Hotchin of JMW’s Business Crime team have been involved in the case since its commencement in August 2015. The team have extensive knowledge and specialist skills to assist various people who may become part of a criminal investigation from their initial police station interviews up until the conclusion of the trial. They have provided advice, assistance, support and representation in respect of the various offences alleged to have been committed, and have been thanked for their ability “to understand their clients and know what they need”.

If you need advice in respect of any of the offences mentioned above please get in contact with a member of our Business Crime and Regulatory Team on 0345 872 6666.